“Let not this weigh with you, sir,” said the Duke, proudly; “the chances are that I leave my estate behind me on this table. That is the only consideration for you to entertain.” “Take him at once; it will be too late soon,” whispered Linton again. “I agree, my Lord,” said Rica, with a slight sigh, as if yielding in opposition to his inclination. “When is the money to be forthcoming?” “Now, sir. Here, upon this spot; here, where, before I rise, I am determined to have my revenge.” “The bank always closes at daybreak,” said Rica, gravely. “Upon this occasion it will not,” said the Duke, with an air of command. “Be it so, my Lord Duke; you shall have everything as you wish it. I only call these gentlemen to witness that this proceeding is contrary to my desire, and must form no precedent for the future.” “Few will be found to ask for such concession,” said the Duke, tartly. “Let us have no more trifling, but begin.” “I back the Duke,” said Linton, opening his pocket-book, and taking out a roll of bank-notes. “Whatever I have touched to-night has gone luckily with me, and I am sure to bring him good fortune.” “If I might ask a favor, Monsieur,” said the Duke, “it would be to leave me to deal single-handed with my destiny.” “As you please, my Lord,” said Linton, gayly. “If you will not accept me as ally, you must have me as adversary. Charley, make room for me beside you,” continued he, addressing a man whose haggard cheek and deep sunken eye could scarcely recall the features of Lord Charles Frobisher. “He's in for it,” muttered Frobisher, as Linton seated himself at his side. “We shall see,” said Linton, calmly, arranging his notebook before him. Meanwhile, Rica was busily engaged in counting out to the Duke the heavy sum of the purchase. This occupied a considerable time, during which Linton amused the others with a running fire of that gossipry which goes the round of Parisian society, and takes in the world of politics, of literature, of art, and of morals. The eventful period was full of rumors, and none knew better than Linton how to exalt some into certainty, and degrade others into mere absurdity. “If the bank wins,” said he, laughingly, at the close of some observation on the condition of parties, “our friend Rica will be the last Duke in Europe.” “Bah!” said an officer of the Royal Guard, “grape and canister are just as effectual as ever they were; there is nothing to be apprehended from the mob. Two battalions of infantry and a squadron of hussars will carry the 'ordinances,' if the ministry but give the order.” “I wish they would begin the game,” said Frobisher, querulously, for he took no interest in any topic but that of play. “Has any one given orders that the doors shall be close-barred and locked?” said another. “The police will be here presently.” “What should bring the police here, sir?” said Linton, turning suddenly towards the speaker with a look of almost insolent defiance.